Want to know more about our lives? Read our book (From Worcester News)

Want to know more about our lives? Read our book

9:30pm Tuesday 7th February 2012 in News

A book by children about the life of young gipsies, Roma and travellers was launched at County Hall, Worcester.

Children from a group called the T-Club have produced A Kushtie Place to Live, which will be sent to every primary school in the county.

It came about because gipsy and traveller children wanted to tell other children in Worcestershire about their lives.

Children and families who contributed to this book from the Waterside Park in Worcester were invited to take part in the book’s launch in the council chamber.

Each child was presented with their own copy by Worcestershire County Council’s head of learning and achievement John Edwards.

Mr Edwards said: “This book has come about because children from the gipsy Roma traveller community wanted to tell the rest of the county about their lives.

“They have worked hard to produce the artwork, take the photographs and learn new digital skills.

“A Kushtie Place to Live is a credit to the determination of these young writers to break down barriers and share their story with other children and young people in the county.”

The project has been coordinated by the county council’s gipsy Roma traveller education team, who are hoping that the book will help promote a more positive image of Worcestershire’s largest ethnic minority.

Kay Poole, from the team, said: “It was a huge pleasure to work with these children and young people whose creativity never ceases to amaze me.

“Despite the many challenges and problems along the way, A Kushtie Place to Live has been beautifully produced and I am sure readers will join me in congratulating the children on an excellent job done.”